Cinematic triumph as 'Boong' premieres at Toronto event
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, September 08 2024:
Amidst the ongoing violence and political turmoil in the state since May 2023, a remarkable achievement has emerged in the form of 'Boong', a debut him by Manipuri filmmaker Laksh mipriya Devi, premiering on Saturday at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
'Boong' is the first-ever Manipuri fiction him to feature in the festival's Discovery section, marking a historic moment for Manipuri cinema and its often-overlooked industry.
TIFF, an A-grade film festival, runs from September 5-15, in Toronto, Canada.
A statement issued in this regard by the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) informed that Manipuri cinema, despite its rich legacy, has faced significant challenges in recent years, with the absence of awards at the 2022 National Film Awards dampening spirits.
However, selection of 'Boong' for the TIFF has revitalised interest in the state's film industry, bringing global attention back to Manipuri cinema.
The film follows in the footsteps of earlier Manipuri works featured at the TIFF, such as Aribam Syam Sharma's classic 'Imagi Ningthem' and Haobam Paban Kumar's documentary 'A Cry in the Dark'.
Backed by Mumbai-based Excel Entertainment, 'Boong' tells the heart-wrenching story of a young boy's journey to reunite his broken family, set against the backdrop of Khurkhul in Imphal West and Moreh on the India-Myanmar border.
The film not only captures the boy's emotional quest to bring home his absentee father but also serves as a "love letter to Manipur" showcasing the state's vibrant spirit before the violence, the statement said.
It further stated that the film, shot just months before the current crisis broke out, stands as a documentation of a Manipur that now feels distant.
The town of Moreh, once celebrated for its cultural diversity and peaceful coexistence of communities, is portrayed in the film with deep affection.
The production was a collaborative effort, with local residents from various ethnic backgrounds coming together to bring the film to life.
"It gives me chills to think that 'Boong' might be the last documentation of Moreh as it was before the violence," said Lakshmipriya.
"The town, the people, the way we all came together - it's heart-breaking to know that it might never be the same again".
Lakshmipriya's passion for storytelling was sparked by the folk tales her grandmother shared during Manipur's tumultuous times in the late 70s and early 80s."The most comforting memory from my childhood is crawling into my grandmother's bed at night, listening to her stories under the mosquito net, while gunshots echoed in the distance," she recalled.
"This film is my interpretation of those tales, intertwined with the sights, sounds, and smells I associate with Manipur" .
Despite her successful career in mainstream cinema, Lakshmipriya remained committed to capturing the essence of Manipur, working with local, untrained crew members to ensure authenticity in the film.
"It was challenging to navigate an unpredictable terrain like Manipur with local crew and cast who had barely any or no existing background in movie production," she reflected.
However, she emphasised the overwhelming support from the people of Manipur, stating, "The sheer enthusiasm, love, and support of the people of different communities of Manipur made it possible to overcome these challenges and film 'Boong' .
I thank God every day that I got the opportunity to work with all the communities of Manipur.
I am beyond grateful for that".
As displaced residents of Moreh, now living in relief camps, reach out with longing to see the film, 'Boong' has become a time capsule of a Manipur that once was.
The film's narrative of a boy seeking to reunite his family now parallels the state's search for healing amidst division and violence.
In these dark times, 'Boong' stands as a beacon of hope, reminding the world that even in the face of division, the human spirit can find a way forward.
Its success at TIFF not only shines light on Manipur's cultural richness but also elevates marginalised voices, sharing stories that resonate far beyond borders, the statement added.
Comment
